Another fascinating issue of The Times Chronicle (Sept. 25, 2022). I always learn a lot from grandfather Terry Alburger. He set aside his regular Sunday chores (yay Terry) to spend time with three of his grandchildren. Notable was a painting by his 11-year-old about “Fallen Heroes” of 9/11. The children had learned about this in school.

Jennifer Singley writes about aging eyes, especially vision, and how to improve vision throughout life. Get regular eye exams. Wear sunglasses or a hat when outside. Eat a diet rich in orange and yellow vegetables. The saying is that Vitamin A is good for the eyes. Get adequate sleep. Limit amount of time looking at a screen. Seemingly impossible, I think, as I watch folks on my street walking their dogs and reading their smart phones.

Other columnists talk about getting more physical activity and the importance of losing weight. When we turn 40 or 50, the muscles in our eyes lose their focusing ability. Hard to read labels on a can or a good novel.

There are two types of eye doctors. One is an ophthalmologist, who has a medical degree, and performs surgeries, while the other is an optomalogist, who fits patients with glasses.

With autumn already here, make the most of the dwindling light. Continue watering, except if Hurricane Ian is doing the job for us. Plant certain bulbs in the ground. Clean up weeds that have popped up, and, said the columnist, remove chrysanthemums from pots and plant in the earth.

I have a compost heap in my backyard, where all sorts of critters nibble on used egg shells, orange peels, onion skin. Although I have not seen Rocky Raccoon yet, he may be just a day away.

Ruth Deming

Willow Grove